Willie Marle Messer

Willie was a kind and caring man who loved the Lord, sweet tea, reading his bible while sitting in his recliner, and his love for family was strong and profound. He gave the best hugs and always had a joke to tell no matter what was going on in his day; he always had time to joke with you. He would welcome you in and just sit, talk, and listen. Whether it was a quick chat or an all-day meet up, you always felt loved after spending time with Willie.

Willie passed away on June 18, 2023 at the age of 93. He was born June 4, 1930 to Julius Roy and Mary Estelle Messer. Growing up, Willie was a fun-loving child who enjoyed playing with his best friend and brothers Paul, Julius and later came Norman and the four of them were inseparable. Willie grew up in Coopers Township (now called Sandy Cross) North Carolina where his parents farmed. He always went to church on Sundays where he welcomed people at the door with the firmest handshake and the biggest smile.
In 1950, at the age of 20 Willie, meet and fell in love with his loving wife Irene and they had 6 children. At the age of 32 he was ordained into the West Mount Emmanuel Conference by Rev. Harvey Thomas. In addition to being a minister, Will also worded in textile and retired with 42 years of service from Rocky Mount Mills. Willie took pride in his family and was a loving and praying father, Papa, great granddaddy and great great-granddaddy. He always loved making time for his wife and children. Willie loved doing crafts or working on clocks and watches. He also loved his church family.

Willie was preceded in death by his loving wife Irene Messer of 57 years; one brother Paul Messer, one sister Myrtlene.

He leaves to cherish his memory, brothers Julius Messer, Norman Messer (Barbara); sister Ernestine Messer; daughters Shirley Pollard of the home, Elizabeth Lewis of Knightdale, Brenda Wrenn (Greg) of Bailey, Phyllis Messer of Rocky Mount; Jackie Manning of Pinetops; son JR Messer (Gwen) of Rocky Mount; 16 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren; 17 great great-grandchildren and one on the way; a host of nieces, nephews, friends and family. Willie will be missed by all of us who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A visitation will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at Cornerstone Funeral Home. The service will follow at 12:00pm in the chapel. Burial will be private.